Pamela J. Swanson

I am the sole practitioner at ABC Life Solutions which offers individual, family, and couple counseling. As a master’s level therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona (LPC 2152), I bring a wealth of experience to guide you in your change process. I am also a certified EMDR provider and a certified bereavement counselor. I have been in practice in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, since 1994, having received a master’s degree in Counseling Education from North Dakota State University in May of 1994. I adhere to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association, of which I am a member. Married and with three grown children and a grandchild, I have personal experience in marriage and family.

My approach is solution focused and narrative—looking at the presenting problem and finding solutions within the story the client tells about his/her life. I adhere to the systemic approach when looking at families—believing the system has created the problem rather than one person in the family being the problem. I include many cognitive/behavioral techniques such as homework, repeated affirmations, goal sheets, hand outs, in session practice, and other behavioral techniques to assist with quick change. While most problems can be dealt with in this manner, a client’s history often has an impact on “stuckness” and past issues will be taken in to account if necessary.

The initial assessment always includes a brief history of family, work, medical, social environmental, alcohol and drug use, along with previous treatment and risk assessment (suicidality and homicidality). With any significant finding a more in depth evaluation may be necessary.

I have experience and training in parenting, premarital therapy, play therapy, couple issues, gay and lesbian issues, trauma, anger management, mood disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, compulsive disorders, health related issues, co-dependence, eating disorders, women’s issues, stress management, post traumatic stress disorder, occupational issues, life management, bereavement, adolescent issues, domestic violence, incest survivors and sexual dysfunction.

I work with all ages face to face but can not provide play therapy for children telephonically for obvious reasons. Though I have worked with trauma survivors extensively, many trauma treatments require face to face counseling. I cannot do EMDR telephonically.

I believe in the power of my clients to heal themselves with guidance and education. By applying the skills they will learn in the therapy sessions they can transform their lives. I also believe that by changing your thinking you can change your life. Your feelings come from your thinking. Even when “out there” circumstances seem to control your life, you can choose how to perceive them. I help you take charge of your life.

Click Here to see the Definitions of Mental Health Providers (as defined by the board of behavioral health in Arizona) to help you choose the right professional for your needs.